Dear Cooper

Dear Cooper,
In a few short hours you will turn six years old.   I asked you if you thought you would feel differently tomorrow.  You said that you definitely think you'll be a little taller.   I don't know about that but I hope it's true!
On the eve of your birthday I can't help but remember the day you came into this world.  You surprised us, coming four weeks ahead of schedule, on the heels of a hot summer weekend of amusement parks and baseball games.   Apparently you didn't want to miss out on any of the fun.   And fun loving you are !    I love your laugh and your smile and even the mischief you get into.  I can see it form behind your eyes before you even utter a word or make a move.   You have always loved to make people laugh - especially your sisters - although sometimes they get a little annoyed with your tactics. 
One thing that continues to impress me is the heart you have for others.   You are very thoughtful and you think about making things special for other people.   Just this past weekend, while we were visiting family, you colored picture after picture to give to people you barely even know.   And don't get me started on how sweet you were to Daddy on Father's Day.   You sure know how to melt my heart.  I pray that you will always think of others the way you do now. 
Yes, you have your moments where you have to be told to listen or to calm down.  There are lots of times that I shout, "Please let your sister alone!" more times in a day than I care to discuss.   I know we have trials and difficulties and days when we both have less than ideal attitudes.    But I think that it's part of how we learn and grow - you into a young man and me into the mom of a young man.   We stumble every once in awhile but I think we are doing a pretty great job.
This year you've grown taller and more mature.  You've embraced sports with such enthusiasm.   Basketball was a new and wonderful experience for our family and this week you start golf lessons.  Soon, I fear, I will loose you to Daddy and the golf course!  
The year that you turn six is going to be a big year for you.  In less than two months you will be starting school and my time with you each day will be cut a little bit shorter.   I will miss you being here with me during the day or being able to pick you up from school early for an afternoon of movies.     However, I will enjoy watching you make new friends and explore new things.
Tomorrow we will celebrate the six years you have been part of our family.    I, for one, can't imagine my life without my sweet boy. Thank you for making me smile, laugh, care and want to be a better person.   I love you to the moon and back - even when you wipe off my kisses with that silly grin on your face.

Love You!
Mommy